Working in Germany

Your guide to working in Germany

What are the best-paid jobs in Germany? Which employers pay the most? Do foreigners have a chance of getting a job in Germany? And how do I apply? You will find the answers to all these questions – and much more – here.

In December 2018, the Federal Government passed a skilled labour immigration act, which aimed at making it easier for non-EU foreigners with vocational training to enter the German labour market. The law is yet to be confirmed by the Bundestag. It is expected to come into force at the beginning of 2020. We show you what career opportunities international skilled people have in Germany and how you can find the right job.

What's the situation on the German labour market?

The German labour market needs well-trained women and men. Foreign skilled staff have good chances in jobs where there are many vacancies. According to a study commissioned by the Bertelsmann Foundation in February 2019, Germany is dependent on immigration from countries outside Europe: by 2060, Germany will have an annual immigration requirement of at least 260,000 people. An annual average of 114,000 immigrants are expected to come from other EU states. This means that around 146,000 women and men would have to immigrate from countries outside the EU.

Which jobs are needed in Germany?

1. Software developers, architects, programmers
2. Electronics engineers, electricians, electrical fitters
3. Nurses
4. IT consultants, IT analysts
5. Economists, business management experts
6. Customer advisors, account managers
7. Production assistants
8. Sales representatives/assistants
9. Sales managers, product managers
10. Architects, civil engineers
     

Source: Dekra Arbeitsmarkt Report 2018

Here you can find more information about jobs that are in demand

Do foreigners have a chance of getting a job in Germany?

Skilled job-seekers from abroad have very good opportunities in certain professions. For example, there are many jobs for engineers, doctors, nurses, as well as in the manual trades. Here you can find useful tips and experience reports for international applicants.

What are the best-paid jobs in Germany?

Scientists, doctors and engineers are among the best-paid vocational groups. However, in Germany, how much you earn depends not only on your profession. There are also regional differences in salaries. We show you how much people earn in Germany.

Who are the best employers in Germany?

Two new rankings show which companies are popular and which employers have a particularly good reputation in Germany. One German company is particularly convincing. Here you will find the top ten best German employers.

How to find a job in Germany

If you're looking for work in Germany, you can contact the job centre or use the job portals and important business networks. Alongside the established job forums, innovative apps offer a surprising way of accessing the labour market.

How to apply for a job in Germany

We have plenty of tips on applying for jobs, for example which documents and certificates you should prepare and how to compile a CV for German companies. And we also know which mistakes you should definitely avoid in your application.

If you're invited to go for an interview, you should know what impresses German HR managers. We have put together a list of what to expect in the interview – with the best tips from preparation to the dress code.

It can also do no harm for you to know the five most important rules of business etiquette in Germany. And we let you in on the ultimate workplace terms and rituals.

Where can I find information about vocational training in Germany?

If you are not yet a skilled professional but would like to undergo vocational training or further education in Germany, there are also plenty of opportunities for you. Here you can find information about the dual training scheme and tips for finding a training placement:

How high is income tax in Germany?

You may have heard that the German tax system is a science in itself. Here we explain the most important aspects of income tax in Germany.

Where can I find information on visas and work permits in Germany?

The multilingual portal make-it-in-germany.com bundles information especially for foreign professionals about work permits and visas, job hunting, qualifications, German language skills, language courses, the working environment and formalities in everyday life.

Is my university degree or professional qualification valid in Germany?

The portal anerkennung-in-deutschland.de provides information on the recognition of professional qualifications.